Parthenopoeia, or, The history of the most noble and renowned kingdom of Naples with the dominions therunto annexed and the lives of all their kings : the first part / by that famous antiquary Scipio Mazzella ; made English by Mr. Samson Lennard ... ; the second part compil'd by James Howell, Esq., who, besides som [sic] supplements to the first part, drawes on the threed [sic] of the story to these present times, 1654 ; illustrated with the figures of the kings and arms of all the provinces.

The Land of LAVORO, The First Province of the Kingdom OF NAPLES.

THe Fortunate and happy Province of the Land of Lavoro, called of the Latines, Terra Laboris, hath on the East the River Silare, on the West Garigliano, now called Liris, on the North the Apennin Mountains, and on the South the Tirrene Sea: the length there∣of wanteth little of a hundred miles, and the breadth thirty: It hath been inhahited by the Osci, the Arunci, the Volosci, the Au∣soni, the Cimerii, the Samniti, the Cumani, and the Picentini. It hath four princi∣pal Rivers, Garigliano, Vulturno, Sarno and Sele, which as they are between them, little wanting of an equal distance, so alwaies in most places they cannot be waded. This Country was also called of the Latines, Campania felix, it was called happy for the fertillity and fatness of the earth, which is so much, and in such sort, that here Ceres and Bacchus strive together for the greatest Soveraignty: It attained the name, of the largeness of the fields, it was also called the old Campania, as a diffe∣rence from the new, that is, Campania of Rome, and now from the Leborine Fields, which are near Capoa, it is called the Land of Lavoro. The Fields of this Province, lie under moist and mistie hils, and are all, as it were, in a plain, and the be∣nefit of this Land (briefly to declare the nature of the Earth) is, that the superficial or uppermost part thereof is very drie and dustie; but within, so spongeous and moist, like to a pomice that sucks in the water, whereby no small profit ariseth also from those Hills, for that the showers descending from them, are dispersed over all the Valley, and so not over-watering the earth, nor making it too soft, but apt and

easie for tillage; the same ground sendeth not out that received moisture in any Springs or Fountains, but temperateth it, and concocting within it, holds it as nou∣rishment unto it. Corn is sowed once in a year, and Oats and Flax twice every year. Dionysius of Alicarnassus saith, That in his time was successively gathered in one year, three sorts of Fruits, that is, one in the Spring, another in Summer, and the third in Autumn. In this most plentifull Region the Trees flourish twice in a year, and there is found all delights for the pleasure of men. In this Noble Province, are large and fertile Fields, pleasant and fruitfull Hils, thick and delightfull Woods, fresh and clear Springs, and pleasant Lakes: Moreover there are places in the manner of spa∣cious Amphitheaters wrought amongst the Hils, by that great Workmaster Nature, to yield delight in the hunting of wild. Beasts that are inclosed therein; and to de∣clare the great abundance that is there, I will begin with flying fowles, whereof there are great plenty, that is to say, Pheasants, Partridges, Goodwittes, Woodcocks, Snites, Quails, and divers others. In like sort there are of four-footed Beasts, as wild Boars, Harts, Goats, Hares, Conies and Foxes; of ravenous creatures there are Wolves, and of those that are fatted it is very plentifull. There are also in places near the Mediterranean shore, great Vaults and Caves, with the Foundations of sump∣tuous Buildings, which yields no small wonder to every one that beholds them, with other strange works wrought, as well by the wonder of Nature, as also by curious Art and the emulation thereof, which procures no small admiration to all that knows not the powerfulness of Art and Nature. The Sea of this most happy Province a∣boundeth with divers sorts of excellent Fishes, as Sturgions, Mullets, Tonnies, and sundry other fishes. Neither is there less abundance in the kinds of Shel-Fishes, as of Oysters, Muscles, Cockles, Periwincles, and infinite others. Of Minerals it is ve∣ry rich in Gold, Silver, Alume, Brimstone. Besides this, it is endued with so many medicinable and wholsome Bathes, which in the Spring, and other times of the year, heals infinite people of many strange and incurable diseases. So that that great Grandmother Nature, hath bestowed so great abundance of her benefits, that it seems she is delighted therein. The which the writer Polybius considering, which was the Master of Scipio Africanus, wrote these words near Sipontino, Est enim Campanus ager copia rerum, & fertilitate regionis, ac amaenitate & pulchritudine loci excellentissimus, nam in littore maris positus est, & ex eo universo terrarum orbe veni∣entes in Italia innumerae gentes consunt. And Hannibal, that great Carthaginian Captain, beholding the delightfulness of this happy Region, and the beauty there∣of, purposing to assemble his Army, which he caused to winter therein, returned from thence nice, dainty, and full of the delicacie of Campania, said, as it is written in Strabo, in the end of the fifth Book, Victor ipse periclitor, ne host is praeda siam: quippe qui milites viros dederim faeminas recipiam. The Campanians (saith Cicero against Rullus of the Law Agraria) Superbi bonitate agrorum, magnitudine fructuum, salu∣britate aeris, & pulchritudine regionis This Province doth likewise deserve great praise for the diversity of Wines which it bringeth forth, so much esteemed both in ancient and later times, as the most delicate of Sorrento, which Tiberius Cesar, and Physitians so much commended; the Wine Massico, now called Massaquano, brought from the Mount Massico, which is near Carinola, in the Territory of the people Equani, among which is Massa and Vico: the most excellent Falerni so much pleasing to the Roman Emperors, of whom Iulius Caesar, as Pliny writeth, honou∣red his Feasts and most sumptuous Banquets which he made in Rome and principally that wherewith in two and twenty thousand Chambers he feasted all the Romans. There are the tears and Greek Wines so much celebrated by Pliny; the most odori∣ferous Wine Nolano, and that of Vico no less wholsome then pleasant in taste, with others very excellent and delicate Wines, which are preferred before all others in the plentifull Tables of the greatest Lords. The Oyles are in no less esteem, which are there made, and chiefly those of Massa, of Sorrento, of Vico, of Gaeta, and of the Isle of Capre. And no less fruitfull is this fortunate Country of the best Cattle, as Oxen, Cowes, fat Weathers, Hogges, and Calves, whereof the most excellent are those of Sorrento. There is also made the finest silks, which Merchants buy more then any others, for the goodness thereof. It is very plentifull in Heards and Droves of Cattel, and serviceable Horses for Warr. And to conclude, this Province wor∣thily

deserveth all praise for the excellent things that are therein, wherefore it is no marvel if ancient Writers call this the most beautifull and excellent Region of the world, having a most temperate and delicate air, and so fruitfull a Country, that in all times of the year there are heard divers and sundry birds to sing. Here in the Spring time, and even in the Corn, where are not sowed, do grow Lillies, Violets, and Roses of excellent and delicate savour, so that the earth never ceaseth to bring forth; for which cause it is commonly said that Campania yieldeth most Oyntment, others say most Oyle, being also made in Naples the best and most excellent Con∣serve that may be found, through the great goodness of the Roses. This Country bringeth forth people of an indifferent stature, and of a fair complexion, valorous minded, and very wise both in Councel, and the managing of worldly affairs, inge∣nious and apt for learning, and more then measurably warlike both on foot and horse, from whence generally appeareth a certain mind to command.

Having now declared the sundry benefits and celestial favours of this most noble Region, I will now handle in particular, where I left at the City of Ansure, now Terracina, in a part of Latium, was founded the City of Fondi, standing placed in the way Appia, twenty miles distant from Terracina, of Strabo, Pomponius, Mela, Silus an Italian, and of Ptolomy called Fondi; but of Antonius Fonde, the Terri∣tory whereof bringeth forth excellent Wines, which are much commended of Pli∣ny, and of Strabo, and Martial writeth, that by any means the Wines of Fondi must not be suffered to wax old.

Haec fundana tulit felix autumnus opimi Expressit mulsum Consul, & ipse bibet.

Soterus, Bishop of Rome, was born in this City, who governed the Church of God 7 years 11 moneths, and 18 daies. This City suffered much loss by Ariadeno, Barbarossa the Turk, Captain General of the Navy of Soliman Emperor of Turks in the year 1534. at which time all the Citizens that were found therein were made slaves. Passing along towards Formie, on the left side, is Villa Castello, from whence descended the Roman Emperor Galba, on the right side appeareth the Lake Funda∣no, called by Pliny, Fundano, although it be written Fandano by some corrupt wri∣ters: This said Lake is full of Fishes, and very great Eeles. Five miles from thence remaineth the foundations of the City Mamurri, of whom Horace saith,

In Mamurranum lassi deinde urbe manemus.

Passing hence by the rough and stony way Appia, near the most high steep Moun∣tains is the Land of Atrio, now called Itro, the Country of the Lamury Citizens of Rome, five miles almost, but somewhat out of the way Appia, on the right hand is Gaeta, upon the shore so called (as Strabo and Virgil affirm) of the Nurse of Aeneas, which died and was there buried; and although the Gulf of Gaeta, and the strong Rock thereof be sufficiently known, and much renowned, especially in ancient time, yet was it not a City untill the Saracins destroyed Formie, which was in the year of Christ 856. and then was the reliques of the worthy St. Erasmus transferred from Formie to Gaeta, and it was by Pope Gregory the 4^th made a Bi∣shops Sea. This City was very faithfull to King Ladislaus, from whom for this cause it attained many priviledges, and so strong was the Castle thereof, that it was held one of the Keys of the Land, and therefore was there alwaies held a strong Ga∣rison of Soldiers, Gaeta hath alwaies the best Haven: which as Spartianus writeth, was repaired with great cost by Antonius Pius. This City had great honour by Galasius second, Bishop of Rome, by that famous Thomas of Viao, of the Order of Preachers General, and after Cardinal of the Church R. this excellent man past to a better life at Rome the 9 of August in the year 1534. And moreover about our time Iohn Tharcagnota hath been very famous, whose History is generally known to all. Following on the said way, there are seen even to Mola (which are five miles) delightfull Gardens near the crooked shore of the Sea under Gaeta, full of green flourishing Oringes, Lymons, and other pleasant fruits, environed with delight∣full

Christaline streams, yielding much content to the beholders thereof. Proceed∣ing somewhat forward, in following the aforesaid pleasant way on the sea-side, is seen the beautifull City Mola, built by the ruines of the ancient City Formia, now called Ormia, which a little distance are seen the Foundations of Formia, built by the Laconi (according to Pliny) and was so called by the conveniency of the Haven (as Strabo writeth) this ancient City was the habitation of Antiphate King of the Lestrigoni, most cruel Tyrants. Mola hath very fair and fruitfull Territories, some think that Mola was so named of the Wharfs, or rather of the Mills which are there∣in turning by the continual course of water which plentifully riseth from the bot∣tom of the Hils. In this Country was the fair and delightfull Village Formiana of Scipio and Lelius the true and faithfull friends; which afterward was purchased by Cicero, and throughout all this Country, which is from Mola to the River Gariglia∣no, are seen the ruins of great buildings, whereby it may be thought that those pla∣ces in ancient time were much inhabited, being the most delightfull, pleasant, and fruitfull that the Roman Empire had. After Mola, three miles upon a little Hill, is the Castle Honorato, in the way Hercolantea, builded by Honoratus of Gaeta, Coun∣ty of Fondy: Not far off is the Hill Cecubo, which stretcheth to the Gulf of Gaeta; this Hill is much renowned for the excellency of the Wines thereof, which are much commended by Horace, by Martial and Strabo, following that way towards the mouth of the River Garigliano, where it runneth into the Sea before Clanino, is Liris, so much celebrated for the overthrow which the Saracins had by Pope Iohn the 10^th, and for the Victory obtained by Consalvo Ferrando, of Cordova against the French, to whose only valour was attributed the Victory of them, and the flight of the Turks, whereby he gained the glorious sirname of Great Captain, a favour vouchsafed from heaven, whereof the world hath so few. This said River riseth from the Appennine Mountains, and passeth by the Territory of Vestino, near to the Country of Fregelle, now a famous City, and goeth by Luco, or rather the Sacred Wood, sometimes honoured of the Minturnesi, which was near the said City. On the left side of the said River is seen upon a little Hill the City of Traietto, builded near to the place where was the City of Minturne, the ruines whereof are now to be seen, and almost the whole Theatre, and the ancient aquiducts; Minturne was builded by the Ausoni, and was afterward a Roman Colony, and was divided by the River, near the mouth thereof. It was in the time of Pope Marcellinus, ho∣noured with a general Councel, and it was one of the Cities▪ which for the grievance of the air, was priviledged by the Romans both from the Wars and other burthens and Impositions. Cai. Marius flying hither secretly, hid himself in a moorish or fenny place, and beholding an Asse to go very pleasantly to the water to drink, took it for a good presage, or a token of good fortune, re-inforced his Army, and put∣ting to Sea, entred Rome victoriously.

From thence leaving the Confines of this Region of Latium, we enter on the right hand into the Land of Lavoro, and the Hill which is in the entrance of the Land of Lavoro, very near to the mouth of Garigliano, hath many famous names, for in some place it is called Gauro, in other Massico, and in some other Gallicano; that part thereof that is nearest to Garigliano, is called Gauro, from whence the Ri∣ver hath been called Gaureliano. Pliny saith that this Gauro, as also the Hill Vessu∣vio, near Naples, yieldeth Sulphur or Brimstone, which the hot-waters sufficiently declare, which at this present are seen to issue and boyle, where now is the Tower of the Bathes, and the Bathes themselves. After Minturn the first Land that is near∣est in the Land of Lavoro on this side, was Trifano, situated by Livy between Min∣turn and Sinuessa, the next following was Sinuessa, five miles (as Strabo saith) from Minturn; but it is ten miles, as it now appeareth; Livy saith that there were two Colonies brought about the Territory Vestino and Falerno, one at the mouth of Ga∣rigliano, which was Minturn (as is said) and the other in Vestino, which confineth with the Territory of Falerno, where first there was a Greek City called Sinope, which was builded by the Sinopesi, and was by the Roman Colony called Sinuessa, because it joyned near to the City Sessa: Here died old Turpillus that comical Poet; many ruines of this City are to be seen on the land, but more in the Sea, and the Ha∣ven thereof had a large Key or Wharlf made by mens labour, at the top of the

Hill called Dragone, saith Livy, that Fabius Maximus led his Army by the top of the Mount Massico, forbidding passage to Hannibal, and that the Souldiers of Han∣nibal sackt the Country even to the water Sinuessano, from whence it seemeth that the Mount Massico, whereon Fabius Maximus held his Army, is a part of the same Hill which reacheth from Sessa to Carinola. In the place of Sinuessa two miles from thence upon the Hill, is the Fort of Mondragone honoured with the dignity of a Dukedome, the Town whereof stands in the Plain less then a mile from the Sea; where Sinuessa was, is nothing seen but the Baths, which as Strabo saith, doe cure many diseases, and especially help women that ate baren. After the Fort of Mondragone upon the Hill Massico which is full of Villages, from the part towards the Sea there is no land or Castle; but from that part which is towards Garigliano, between the Sea, Garigliano, the way Appia, and the Mount Massico, is no more plain then eight miles every way, and is manured and inhabited with much people, and is now called the Villages of Sessa, which Plain in the happy time of the Ro∣mans, was very fruitfull, three full Meadows abounding with much Grass, as Mar∣tial affirmeth: Near Cascano one of the said Villages, is a Vein of Gold, which King Alfonsus the first made use thereof, but now it is fallen to decay, because they say it yields not sufficient profit into the Kings Exchequer; yet the Reverend Majesty of the Roman Commonwealth did not so, for that they respected no other end then the common utilly, caused the Mines to be digged, for the relief of those poor peo∣ple that laboured therein.

Now turning us into the way Appia, as it passeth by the foot of the Hill Massi∣co, is the ancient City Sessa, called of the Latines Suessa, anciently named Pometia, and sometimes Arunca, builded, as some say, by Hercules, it hath been inhabited by sundry people, the first was said by the Arunci, and the Ausoni, and the Seclecini, and after by the Volosci, and last of all the Vestini, as it appears in sundry places of Livy, the Territory whereof is very fertile of all sorts of Fruits, but particularly Corn, Wine, and Oyle, which for great abundance, the Citizens thereof say pro∣ceeds from the excellency of the air, and that Sessa was so called, as it were Suavis Sessio being so well and so excellently situated, and therefore the Emperor Claudi∣us growing sickly and weak, went thither to recover his health. Sessa was a privi∣ledged City of the Romans, that worthy Philosopher and Phisician Augustine Nifo hath in these our daies much honoured this City. The Arms of this City is a Lyon Rampant gules in a field or, it hath the dignity of a Dukedome, the Lord whereof is Don Antonio of Cordova, Duke of Somma, Nephew to that Noble Lord Consal∣vo Ferrando of Cordova. Going from Sessa by the way Appia, on the right hand of Massico eight miles is Carinola, sometime called Cal••no, an ancient City, joyned on the one side to the Territory of Falerno, and on the other to the Hill Massico, the Fields Falerni stretch from Carinola to Cassilino, which was afterwards called Casteluccio, and was here joyned with the Field Stellato, more pleasant then any other part of Italy, as Livy writeth.

The Hill Massico stretcheth beyond the City of Tiano, and of Calvi, called long since Cales, even to Cajazza, which the Ancients have called Calatia, this Hill is extended with a back on the left hand from Calvi to Venafro, and from thence di∣rectly to Volturno, another part boweth on the right hand, full of Woods and Caves, and goeth to Caianello, sometime called Calicula: And to Vulturno on the right hand of the mouth of Vulturno was sometime a City called also Vulturno, as Livy witnesseth, and was where we now see the Land called Castello, to the Sea of Vul∣turno; not far from the Sea is to be seen Patria, builded upon the ruines of Linter∣no, which was the Town of Scipio Africanus, where he made choice to live when he betook himself to a voluntary exile, and where he spent the latter part of his life: It is said that he caused to be written on his Sepulchre, Ingrata patria non possidebis ossa mea. There is near Linterno, among the ruines thereof, the Fountain of water Acidula, which water is said to make a man drunken as wine; and the Shepherds report▪ that whosoever drinketh of this water, is delivered from all pain of the head; and we having a desire to make trial thereof, found it to savour well as all other, and although a certain fume ascendeth up the nose in smelling it, as Wine useth to doe; yet drinking but a little we could not perceive the effects thereof, which it pro∣cureth

in drinking. Five miles from Linterno is Cuma, between which two places where the shore is crooked between the Pool and the Sea, was the Town of Servi∣lio Vacia, of whom Seneca speaketh. Cuma was builded by the Galcidesi, and the Cumei; the leaders of the Colonie which came thither to inhabit, were Hippocle Cumeo, and Megastene Calcidese, which agreed between them, that from the one it should take the inhabitants, and from the other the name; although some say it was named Cuma from the waves (for Cuma is as much as to say Onda) for being near the stony shore it is full of mighty Rocks, continually beaten with the waves of the Sea. Near Cuma is the Promontory Miseno, where was buried Misceno the Trum∣peter of Aeneas, and between these two is the Lake Acherusia, which is a Moor or Marsh of the Sea very muddy, leaving Miseno, near under the Promontory is the Lake: From thence the shore fetcheth a compass making a gulf where is the Castle Baia, and the Baths of warm water, no less profitable for health, then delight. Baia was so called by Baio the Companion of Vlisses, which was there buried. Near Baia is the Lake Locrino (in the time of the Romans) within it was the renowned Lake Averno. The Lake Lucrino was so called by the profit of the Fishes and Oy∣sters that were taken there. Following the shore is the City of Pozzuolo, which in former time was the Harbour of the Ships of Cumani, builded upon the Hill. In the time afterward of the Wars of Hannibal, the Romans replenished it with peo∣ple; and of the Ditches named it Pozzuolo. Others affirm that it was so named by the ill savour of the water; which from Bale even to Gumeo is generally felt. Following then that shore from Pozzuolo, are seen many Springs of wholsome and medicinable water on the shore near the Ruines; departing from Pozzuolo, and go∣ing by the way which leadeth to Naples, are great ruines of buildings on every side for the space of a mile. At the end of these ruines is the Court of Vulcan, now commonly called Solfatara, which is a Plain inclosed round about with smokie Hills, in the manner of fiery Fornaces, from whence out of divers places arise very stink∣ing exhalations, and the Plain is all full of Sulphure, and sometime it boileth out more then eight hand breadths in height, and being mixed with the earth it seemeth black, and in in such sort that it may rather be called dark clay, then water. Here amongst those natural things that is worthy consideration, it seemeth that the watry humour preserveth the Sulphure in such manner, that during all the time it continu∣ally burneth it consumeth not, and the fire abideth in the same holes, the water is∣suing by the same passage. This place was also called of ancient writers Campo Flagro, as it were a burning field from whence the Poets feign, that there was the battel of the Giants with Hercules, and that the flashing of their wounds, and the Conquest of the Giants, do cause such and so great ebolitions of fire and water. Bending afterward to the North a little from thence is the Hill Asturno very high, in the midst whereof is a Plain very low, reduced into a circle, being two miles in circuit, where is a little Pool with Sulphure water, which issueth out on every side very beneficial to those which are diseased. This Plain is compassed with a Hill which every carrieth an equal height; in one side whereof is a very thick Wood, planted in such sort that all Italy yields not a place more beautifull and more plea∣sant for hunting. This Wood hath great plenty of Acorns and other Fruit and Food for Cattel, and is full of wild Hoggs, Goats, Harts, and other kinds of wild Beasts which entring in of themselves, or forc'd by others, can come no more out again. The top of this Hill is very large, for it reacheth more then the space of five miles; this place is commonly called Listroni, a place reserved for the Kings hun∣ting.

Returning to the way which goeth from Pozzuolo to Naples, is seen the place where was the Village of Cicero, so named at this present, where was buried the Emperor Adrian, which died at Baia (as Spartiano writeth) where the temple was afterward consecrated by Antonio his successor in the place of the Sepulchre. Fol∣lowing yet the said way is seen great ruines of the Village of Lucullus, which he had near Naples (according to Plutarch) where likewise he caused to open the sto∣ny Hill with the Iron, which carried the water of the Sea into the Lake Agnano, which was included in those Hils. On every side of this open Country appeareth high Rocks, near which are the ruins of stately Buildings. Passing by the said

way to the Lake are the Baths of the Lake Agnano, which are certain little close•• vaulted Rooms, from whence there riseth certain hot vapours, in such sort, that a man entring in naked presently falleth into a sweat▪ and therefore they are called Su∣datorii. They dissove the raw and crude humours in man, they lighten the body, comfort the weak, heal the intrails, drieth the Fistula and the ulcer in the body, and easeth the pain of the Gout; Here St. Germano Bishop of Capoa, is said to find the soul of Pascasio Cardinal, as St. Gregory relateth in the fourth Book of his Dia∣logues. A little farther on the right hand, at the foot of the high Rock (which compasseth in the Lake) very near to the same is a hole not very deep in the Rock, nor very large nor high, where any living creature being cast in, dieth sudden••y, which afterward being presently taken out and cast into the water of the said lake, reviveth again. Pliny maketh mention of this hole in his second Book, where he saith, Alii spiracula vocant, alii Charoneas scrobes mortiferum spi••atum exalentes. The said Lake bringeth forth no other thing but Frogs; and in the Spring are often seen many heaps of Serpents, which are there drowned and stifled in the water by the providence of God, which suffereth them not to encrease, being so hurtfull and venomous to the nature of man.

Afterward we come to Pausilipo, which had that name for the pleasantness of the air, which so well agreeth with the situation, helping much the infirmity of weak minds for the expelling of melancholy: Here Cesar had a Fish-Pond, wherein a Fish lived sixty years. And the bottom of this pleasant Hill was all full of Gar∣dens, and Fruits and delightfull Villages; and that part towards the Sea, was not far from the City of Naples, near the shore whereof were an infinite number of Habitations which time hath utterly ruinated. After followeth the Cave of Cocceio, which some attribute to Lucullo, and others to Basso, made after the fashion of that of Cuma, whose entrance is open, and with so great largeness, that three Carts may there pass in rang, and by little and little the light entreth at the windows in the top, which in many places are cut out in the upper part of the hill, and in the right side from the passage of the Cave in the way towards Naples is the Sepul∣chre of Virgil, and by that which doth appear, this was a Chappel compassed and vaulted with Arches, and smoothly walled about with Marble, and within were places for Images to stand in, without, opposite to the Chappel is an Epitaph in white Marble, with these modern Verses,

Qui cineres tumuli haec vestigia? conditur olim Ille hoc qui cecinit pascua, rura, duces.

Going then towards Naples appeareth the little Hil Olimpia, now Piaggia, cal∣led of the Neopolitans Chiaia where are so many goodly Buildings, among the which there is one made by M. Giacomo Sanazaro, so great a friend to the Muses, as any in these our daies, called Merguglino, and in Latine, Mergeline, celebrated by him in his Book De partu Virginis. A little farther near unto the City is the little Isle of Megary, now called the Castle of Vovo, where remaineth a good Garison of Souldiers.

Last of all is the fair and Royal City of Naples, at the first called Sirena, where Parthenope arrived carried by the fortune of the Waves, who changed the name, being newly re-inhabited, according to the Oracle of the Cumani, which before they had destroyed; it flourished and increased again by the union and amity of the Palepoli, being alwaies faithfull to the people of Rome, under whose Empire it conti∣nued with great glory and renown, untill it sell together with the rest of Italy into the hands of the Goths, and other Barbarians, who expelled by the Normans, was governed by them, and made the Head of the Kingdom, from whose Dominion succeeded the House of Suevia, by means of the Queen Constance the only Heir; from whence it came to pass, Charls having killed Tancred, and subdued Coradine under the French, and after succeeded by means of Queen Ione of Arragon, now it remaineth in peace and tranquility under the protection of the Catholick King Philip, and so populous, that it is not inferior to any other City whatsoever, excel∣ling in Nobility and riches, all other in the world; there continually repaireth sun∣dry

Nations from all parts of Europe, there are assembled the most part of the No∣ble Families, and there also florisheth the study of the Laws, and all good Lear∣ning. It standeth at the bottom of little Hils, which compass it in the manner of a Bow or Arch. The Gulf Cratera is directly opposite unto it, so called in ancient time, for that Miseno, and the Promontory of Minerva, now called Campanella, with the Isle of Capri, compasseth it in the fashion of a Cup. A Cup which may be truly called a Cup or Goblet of Silver, since the purity and calmness of the wa∣ter resembleth in outward shew, quicksilver. Naples hath on the East side, Fields, which in length joyn to the Plains Acerram, and in breadth pass to the foot of Vese∣vo, now called Somma. Strabo saith, that in his time did spring at Naples, hot wa∣ters very commodious to make Baths, little inferior to those of Baia; but that they were of less quantity. The Arms of this City was a Field per fesse or. and gu. which Arms were given by great Constantine the Emperor.

Near Naples is the Greek Tower, first called Herculea of Hercules, which came thither with many Ships, after he left Nontiata near the ancient Stabie. At this place standeth aloft that famous Hill of Somma, called Vesevo, and Vesuvio, about which are situated many pleasant Villages, except in the top where the Poets feign remain the shoulders of the Giant Porfirius. In the time of the Emperor Titus, with a general fear to all those in the fields, and destruction of them which were nearest, it cast out from the top thereof great flames of fire, and Balls of Sulphure Mine, and burning stones, where Pliny died, the great preserver of the Latine tongue, whilst he desired to see the great exhalations of that Hill, which cast the ashes even into Africa.

Going a little farther is the City of Castel, by the Sea of Stabia, so named by the City Stabbia, which was not far off, which had been destroyed by L. Silla▪ this Castle is situated in a corner of the Mount Gauro, where it beginneth to stretch to∣wards the West, which maketh the Promontory of Minerva. Here, about the di∣stance of a mile, through the delight of the place, King Charls the second builded a Royal Palace, calling it for the sweetness of the air, the Wholsome House; which afterward King Rubert enlarged, giving it greater beauty and ornament; which place is now possest by the Noble Family Nocera, King Ferrant the first having be∣stowed it on Pietro Nocera, his chiefest favorite, which for his great valour, was af∣terward by King Ferrant the second made General of the Gallies. This Country aboundeth with great plenty of clear water, and great store of the best Fruits; and for the facility and easie access of the place, hath much Traffick: According to the division of Strabo, of Ptolomy, and of Sempronio, this City should be placed in the Country of the Picentini, which is now called the Province of Principato; but we have thought best to confine it in the Land of Lavoro, because it is situated in the Gulf of Cratero. Within a little is the beautifull City Vico, builded by the people Equani, then followeth the City Sorrento very ancient and Noble, situated on the top of the Hill, whose prospect is the Sea: Although it be not of that greatness as formerly it hath been; it hath a very fertile and delightfull Territory, garnish∣ed with Vines and Oringes, and other fruitfull Trees. This City was builded by the Greeks, and was called Petra Syrenum. In this City lived Antonio the Abbot, a most holy man, and famous for his miracles, whose body remaineth even now as a testimony of his divine Miracles (as they say) towards those which are oppressed with Spirits. Then from Sorrento a mile▪ is the City of Massa, newly named, to the which Paolo Portarello, that excellent Poet, and great Humanist hath now, and alwaies giveth everlasting glory. From hence then is seen the solitary Hill Atheneo, the which because it joyneth not with any other Hill, passeth along towards the West, and is otherwise called the Hill Massa, it was also called Prenusso, Sirreo, Mi∣nervio, and the Hill Equano; in the top of the Promontory is to be seen a great part of the Temple of Minerva builded by Vlisses. Under the side of the said Pro∣montory are certain desart and stony Islands, called the Sirenes; in one whereof, from that part which lieth towards Surrento, in ancient time, was a rich Temple, where were certain very ancient gifts, long since presented by the Inhabitants of the Country for the worship and reverance of that holy place, the Reliques whereof are now to be seen.

Here endeth the Gulf called Cratera, included within two Promontories, Miceno and Ateneo, which lie towards the South; which Gulf is almost wholly planted with Houses, and goodly Gardens, opposite to the which riseth out of the Sea, the Isle of Capri, the first delightfull place of Tiberius Caesar, but now ordained for Exiles and banished people: Here twice in a year are Quails taken. Directly against Mi∣seno is the Isle of Prochita, now called Procita, the which (according to Strabo) is a part of Pitecuse, Procita was so called (as Pliny saith) by the depth thereof; for by miracle the said Isle rise of it self out of the bottom of the Sea. But as Dioni∣sius of Alicarnaseo affirmeth, that it was named by a beautifull young man, a Tro∣jau, called Procita, which came thither to inhabit. Whereof Servio upon these Verses of Virgil saith, in his 9 Book,

Tum sonitu Prochyta alta tremit, &c.

Saith that it had that name from Protheus, which signifieth spread or dispersed, to the which opinion agreeth the Greeks, and almost all the Latines. Silio the Italian in his 12 Book, speaking of Procida, saith thus,

Apparet Prochyta saevum sortita Numanta, Apparet procul Inarime, quae turbine nigro Fumantem premit Iapetum: flammasque rebelli Ore rejectantem, & si quando evadere detur Bella Iovi rursus, superisque iterare volentem.

Within this Isle is a fair Country well replenished with people, which hath the same name, and is very famous for the abundance of Corn that is gathered within it, and for the taking of Partridges and Pheasants, whereof there is great plenty. The Lord of this Isle in former time was Iohn of Procida a Phisitian, a man very famous, who fearing not the power of King Charls of Angio, to revenge a great injury, took Sici∣lia, with that famous slaughter of the French, commonly called the Sicilian even∣ing; and he had done greater matters if he had been permitted. This Iohn was in great esteem with Iames King of Arragon, after whose death King Peter his son knowing the valour of Iohn: Le dio (dice il Zurita) en el Reino de Valencia para el, y sus successores las Villas, y Castillos de Luxer, Benyzano, y Palma, con sus alquerias. He gave him (as saith Zurita) in the Kingdom of Valentia to him and his succes∣sors, the Towns and Castles of Luxer Benyzano and Palma, with their bordering Villages. From this man descended the Family called Procita, which are now very great in the Kingdom of Catalogna, and enjoyeth the Countie of Almenare. In the said Isle in a fair Church, with great reverence is preserved the body of St. Marga∣rite the Virgin and Martyre, which was carried thither from Antiochia. Salvo Se∣lano the Phisician honoureth much this Isle, now living in Naples with great renown, who hath written upon the Aphorismes of Hyppocrates. The said Isle is distant from Naples twelve miles, and in composs seven. A little from Procita lieth the Isle Ischia, formerly called Inarime, Pithecusa and Enaria, very famous not on∣ly for the Fable which the Greeks feigne of the Giant Tipheo, strucken with Iupiters Thunder-bolt, but also for a Fortress there, being so great that it is held the second Key of the Kingdom. The said Castle was builded by Alfonsus of Medina, King of Arragon, first of this name, King of Naples, who because it was so well fortified, caused it to be called Ischia, which hath given the name to the whole Island, especi∣ally because all the other ancient names were forgotten. This Castle is very strong by the natural situation thereof, and is built upon a very high Hill, and the passage thereto very steep, and the way for the most part is cut out of the Rock with mens labour, and the entrance is so difficult and streight, that two Souldiers may easily guard it. Hither Ferdinando the son of Alfonsus the second of Arragon, King of Naples retired himself for his security, when Charls the eight King of France had victoriously entred Naples. In the year 1301. the said Island sustained great hurt, for being therein certain veins of Sulphure (whereof the Island is very full) the fire kindled, and running through it, burnt a great part, even to the City of Ischia,

now called Gironda, and the fire continued one month and a half, burning many men and other living creatures, whereby the Inhabitants were inforced to aban∣don the place, flying out of the Isle, some to Procida, some to Capri, some to Pozzuolo, and some to Naples. And of this fire the marks yet appear, where neither grass nor any other thing doth grow, and that for the space of more then two miles, which place the Citizens call the Cremata. This Isle is in compass 18 miles, where is a fair City, to the which are subject eight Hamlets, or small Vil∣lages. This said Isle is very fertile, and bringeth forth all so••ts of Corn and there is made excellent Wine, and hath Mines of Gold, which were together found with the Sulphure, in the year 1465. by Bartholmew Perdice Genoway. It is every where full of Villages, very thick and close adjoyning, there is one very high Hill, which is very difficult for a man to climbe, in the top whereof riseth a Spring, cal∣led the Fountain Aboceto, all the rest of the Isle hath great scarcity of water. The Shores of this Isle are rather crooked then streight, the air there is very healthfull and pleasant, and in it are many and sundry Baths, with those so mar∣velous sands, all things fit to heal divers sorts of infirmities, and many incureable, of the which we have sufficiently written in the Book of the Antiquities of Poz∣zu••la, by me not long since published, to which I refe•• the Reader. This Isle was first inhabited by the Licii, which after the death of Oroute their King, were dri∣ven out by Eneas. Afterward came thither the people Arimni, and within a while the Calcidii. There lieth with great reverence in two honourable Churches of this Isle, the bodies of St. Restituta, Virgin and Martyr, and of St. Olivata her sister (which, as is said) do infinite miracles. Of this Isle was Fabius, Seleucus, Oron∣re, that excellent Cosmographer and singular Poet.

Sailing from hence more forward towards Naples, near the Mount Pausilippo, is the Isle of Nisita, of the Latines called Nosium, and Nesis, which had a fair and goodly Fortress made by the Dutchmen of Amalsi, with a most secure Haven called Agliono, very commodious. Nisita was so called (as the Poets feign) by a Nimph of the Sea, the daughter of Nereus and Doride, Gods of the Sea▪ for the truth is, that Nesis in Greek, is an Island, it was in ancient time the Town of Brutus, that worthy Roman; and in our daies there was found in a Sepulchre a dead body of wonderful greatness, imbalmed, which had about the neck a Chain, with a Jewel of Gold, with this Inscription, M. A. Acilius, C. F. I.I.I. R.

Leaving this Isle is another much less, which is rather a Rock, I may say it was and is commonly called Gaiola; but in my opinion it should be called Gaia, if yet that particle ola, were not adjoyned thereto for a diminutive, signifying the smallness and beauty thereof at an instant, for being very delightfull and pleasant, and made in the fashion of a Theater, where also appeareth the marks of an in∣closed Park for the keeping of wild Beasts, and the Temple of Neptune which was there in old time, so that to every one that comes thither, it seems a place of great delight. These then are the Cities upon the Sea of happy Campania, and the Isles that are thereabout.

But in the Land of Naples the principal City is Capoa, situated on the side of Vulturno, upon the way Appia, twelve miles distant from the Sea▪ it was in for∣mer time as great as any in Italy, except Rome, the first and chiefest, the Senat of Rome once purposed to go to inhabit there. The opinions of the building of this City are divers, and first Cato and Sempronius saith, that it was builded by the Osci; others, as Virgil, Lucan, Silius, Dionisius of Alicarnassus, and Suetonius say that it was builded by Capi, the companion of Aeneas, and that by him it was af∣terward so named. Others say that Remus, the son of Aeneas builded it, and cal∣led it Capoa, from Capi the Father of his Grandsire. Strabo is of another opini∣on, saying it had this name from the large Fields wherein it standeth, whose first Inhabitors were the Opici, and Ausoni, and the Osci, which were driven out by the Cumani, and afterward these by the Toscans, by whom Capoa was made the Head of twelve Cities builded by them in these places, and of this opinion seem∣eth to be Eustaccius, Livy, Pliny, and Annius Diodorus and others say that it was so called for the great capacity and largeness which it hath to produce and bring forth necessary things for the sustenance of living creatures; and in truth the Ter∣ritory

thereof is most excellent above all other Countries of the world. This Ci∣ty, as Livy declareth particularly in many places, was of great Wealth and Au∣thority, and in the time of the great prosperity and delights thereof, was the seat and habitation, and as it were a second natural Country to Hannibal, and in the time of the siege of Casilino, wintred there with his Army, which became cor∣rupt, effeminate, and lazie through the many delights and pleasures thereof: But coming afterward into the power of the Romans, it was as it appeareth to some, that Capoa was by them utterly ruinated, for being strong, a near neighbour, and alwaies their enemy: But the utility and most fertile Territory was the safety thereof, that it was not ruinated, because the multitude of Colonies might have a place and a dwelling in this Country and Territory, and the houses themselves were builded of the common Treasury of Rome: Yet nevertheless there was not left any signe, or any body of a City or Councel, or any Authority, the which Mar∣cus Tullius declareth more largely in one of his Orations, calling the Capoans proud and arrogant, through the bounty of the earth, and the abundance of all things which they had. But there was since (contrary to the opinion of Tully, by Iulius Caesar in his first Consulship) carried to Capoa one Colony of Romans, and those new Inhabitants undoing and pulling down certain ancient Sepulchres to build little houses in their Villages, purposing to imploy those stones, and u∣sing therein much labour and diligence, passing up and down discovered certain Vessels of antick work, found in a little Table of Brass, wherein was written, Capi, the builder of Capoa to be here buried, with Letters in Greek words to this effect, That whensoever the bones of Capi shall be discovered, at the same in∣stant one of the kindred of Iulo must be slain with a sword by the hands of his own friends and kindred, and after be revenged with grievous afflictions and the ruine of Italy.

This same Capoa was by Gensericus King of the Vandals razed and destroyed, with sword and fire six hundred years after it had been subject to the Romans; but since the Goths & Ostrogoths being chased away by Narsete Eunuco Captain to the Emperor Iustinian, was newly inhabited again. And about a hundred years af∣ter was destroyed and ruinated anew by the Lombards; but with the reliques buil∣ded of the Inhabiters again, two miles distant from the ancient place. Since by Conradus King of Naples, son of the Emperor Frederick the second, the Walls thereof were thrown to the ground, because the Capoans were known to be con∣trary to the Manfredi, with the Neopolitans; wherefore he ransackt and sackt it, and did therein harm enough. It sustained great calamity in the time of Pope Alexander the sixth, being sacked and robbed by the French sent by Lewis the twefth King of France, to the Conquest of the Kingdom of Naples, against King Frederick of Arragon; now it remaineth well fortified by the providence of Phi∣lip of Austria, the most puissant Catholick King, under whose protection it rest∣eth most secure. Pliny in the description of Italy, speaking of Capoa, saith that there is the Field Leborino, much more pleasant and delightfull then any part of all Italy; and he in another place calleth Leborino the excellent Territory of Ca∣poa; and to declare what it is, the Territory thereof is all plain, which stretch∣eth from Tifata (which is the Hill above Capoa) even to Naples and Pozzuolo; and from Capoa to the mouth of Vulturno, where it entreth into the Sea. Capoa being so hated and defaced by the Romans, and twice ruinated, the people near adjoyning disdained to be any longer called Campani, desiring to avoid this in∣famy, and this danger to be hated and undone for this name, changed the name, being called by their ancient name, Leborini, and so much their constant perse∣verance prevailed, that that which before was wont to be called Campania, was called the Land of Lebore: But since the word being corrupted by people, was called the Land of Labore; from whence grew the opinion, that this should be because, as it were all pains (for so the word Labore signifies) should there be well bestowed; and some others have said, that it should be so called from the great and difficult pains that is required in the subduing of it. F. L. Sosipatro Charisio, a most ancient Gramarian was a Citizen of Capoa, whose works have been found by Iano Parasio. Victore, called the Capoan, Bishop, and a famous

Astrologian, and an excellent Orator▪ hath given great honour to this City, who lived in the year of Christ 480. Likewise Pietro of Vineis, was also a Citizen, a learned Lawyer, which was in great favour with the Emperor Frederick the second, King of Naples: but the Emperor had afterward a certain suspicion of him for a conspiracy that was de••ised, banished him, where through grief he died, having first composed a Book of Consolation: Of this Pietro, Dante maketh mention in the first part of the 13 Cant. saying, I am he which holdeth both the Keys. Iohn An∣tonio Campano hath also given no small reputation to this noble City, of whom Raffaello Voluterano writeth, that he know him, being a child, attended the keeping of sheep, and being apt and urged by nature, endeavoured by all means to attain learning, wherein he so much profited, that he was esteemed worthy to read in the Schools of Paris, being entertained by the Paragians with a large stipend, and so much he increased in fa•••• and learning, that Pius the second afterward made him Bishop of Apruntino. This learned man left behind him many Works, of the which was the book of the Acts and famous deeds of Braccio of Montone. He writ the life of the worthy Prince Frederick Duke of Vrbin, and the life of Pope Pius the second. Moreover in these our daies Camille Pellegrino▪ and Beneditto of Vva, excellent Poets, whose Works are well known, have, and alwaies give e∣verlasting honour to this noble City. And with these hath also been very fa∣mous Iohn Battista, an eloquent Orator.

Afterward from Capoa, eight miles distant is Aversa▪ a noble and a rich City, builded upon the ruines of the ancient Attella, often remembred by Livy and Marcus Tullius. Atella was the well-spring of lascivious Verses, and wanton and effeminate behaviours; whereupon the compositions, and lascivious Como∣dies and dishonest, were called Atelliane. Boyes and girls were taught certain lascivious Verses, and to that purpose did come with a certain composed measure, and wanton carriage of the body, and roling the eyes to pronounce them with so great immodesty and lascivious behaviours, at the Tables of dishonest persons, and on the Stages, that there wanted nothing but the dishonest and carnal conjuncti∣on together.

But of better discipline was the beginning of Aversa, the which by Averso the Norman, a famous Captain, was first built, and afterwards was beautified by Robert Guiscardo, a worthy and a valiant man. This City was ruinated and de∣faced even to the foundation by Charls the first of Angio King of Naples, for the Rebellion of the House Rebursa: But it was afterward newly re-edified and beautified by Charls the second, King, his son. This City is great, and much inhabited, and is one of the principal in the Land of Lavoro, as well for the vici∣nity and neighbourhood of the City of Naples, from the which it is not distant more then seven miles, as also for the fertilty of the pleasant and beautifull fields thereof, the which being inclosed in six miles, spread between Naples and Capoa: And a little more towards Linterne, compassing a great part of the Leborine fields, sometime very famous, and now called Gaudo. Moreover this City is very hono∣rable for the Bishoprick, which yieldeth eight thousand Crowns yearly, and is now under the Authority of the worthy and reverend Lord Don Pietro Orsino, a Prelate (as it is commonly said) of great clemency and wisdom, whereby he is loved and honoured of all. This City had many famous men very expert in the Law; as Cavello Barnado President of the Kings Chamber, Felice Barnada, Tomaso Grammatico, a famous Councellor for the deciding of controversies, Sci∣pio Cutinar••o, Regent of the Councel of Italy in Spain, Marc. of Mauro, President of the Summaria. In Philosophy have been many learned, as Bartholmew of Do∣nato, which writ a discourse de Corporeitatis Luca Prassitio, which subtilly and wittily writ ten Disputations against Augustine: Nifo of Sessa, very learned are these Treatises, De immortalitate animae: and de prestantia literarum supra arma, wherein he exprest great learning, and in these daies together with these the reve∣rend Father Alfonso of Marco, of the reformed Order of Preachers, who for his good and examplary life, shineth as the Sun in darkness, he hath learnedly writ upon Logick, natural Philosophy, the soul, Metaphysick, and de ente rationis, and he is now commenting the same of St. Thomas, and if God permit him life, we may

expect other learned Works to proceed from him. In the aforesaid City are these Noble Families, Altimaro, Cutinario, Gargano, Grimaldo, Landulfo, Pacifio, Scaglione, Silvestro, Simonello, Tufo, Ricardo, Della Valle, and others.

Not far from Aversa is Marigliano in a good Soil, and is wholly walled about, and by the Ancients called Merlianum and Marianum, the Citizens whereof say, that it was so called by C. Marius the Founder thereof, and it is now indued with the dignity of a Marquiss, under the jurisdiction of the House of Montenegro▪ Innocentius the third, Bishop of Rome, hath much honoured this Land, being born there; and at this present R. D. Iacobo Marotta a learned Philosopher, who hath written upon the predicables and predicaments of the Logick of Scotus, & de tri∣plici intellectu, Humane, Angelical, and Divine, and read in the common Schools of Naples, the Metaphisicks with a wonderfull concourse of Students.

Afterward appeareth the City Acerra, called by Strabo, Acerrae, which was burnt by Hannibal the Carthaginian: But was again newly re-edified by the Ro∣mans, whereof Livy often maketh mention, and Virgil calleth the Territory there∣of very good and fertile. Near to which City runneth the River Glanio, very hurtfull to the Country through the continual inundations, and therefore is almost disin∣habited. Acerra was builded by the people Nasamoni, who in honour of Iupi∣ter Feretrio made a high Altar after the fashion of a little Ship, whereupon they burnt great abundance of sweet Odours, wherefore it was called Acerra by the Nasamoni, which opinion Alexander of Alexandro Neopolitan confirmeth in the 7 Chapter of his third Book, speaking of their Gemali: Acerra erat ara con∣stituta ubi odores incenderet, quae acerra dicta erat à Nasamonibus populis. Some are of opinion that an Altar so called, was only devised by the Nasamoni, but that Numa Pompilius erected the Temple of Iupiter Feretrio. Festo believeth that Feretrio was so called by bringing of peace, although Plutarch saith that he should be so named by the wounding of enemies: whereupon Propertio writeth a learned Elegy of Iupiter Feretrio thus,

Nunc Iovis incipiam causas aperire Feretrii, Armaque de ducibus trima recepta tribus.

To which Temple the Ancients when they obtained victory of their enemies, con∣secrated all their best and richest spoils.

Departing from Acerra, is the River Glanio; which springeth from the Hill a∣bove Sessua, by ancient Writers named Clanius, whereof Virgil maketh men∣tion in two of his Georgicks thus,

Talem dives arat Capua vicina Vesevo. Ora jugo & vacuis Clanius non aequus Acerris.

Probus writeth that the River Clanio took that name from the Giant Clanio. Af∣terward is seen Sessula, distant from Acerra four miles, called by Strabo, Suessu∣la, and by Livy in many places, and in his seventh Book sheweth that in this City was a great battel between the Romans and the Samnites, where the Samnites were put to flight by M. Valer. This City is almost now ruinated. Afterward appear∣eth from the North part, the Hils of Capoa, called by Livy, Tifata, these Hils are above Capoa, and above all this Country, the which pass along even to the Ter∣ritory of Nola. Afterward is the River Isclero, and the River Sorritello; and not far off upon a fair Hill is the Aierola, an excellent Country, honoured with the dignity of a Dukedom under the Family Caracciola. From Aierola five miles is in a fair Plain, Arienzo, a Country full of worthy and honourable people, called of the Latines, Argentum, the Territory whereof is very fertile and full of Fruit, and especially of Percope, where they grow more common in this Country then any other, verily these fruits are to be preferred before all others for their delica∣cy and great goodness these said Trees live not above five years, and it is necessary that the seeds or carnels thereof be sowed towards the East, in a place where the cold cannot hurt them, for cold is a great enemy to these Trees; the Fruit thereof

is of the colour of Gold with red spots, and a slender rine, and weighs a pound and more according to the place where they be planted. Not far off upon a steep and pleasant little Hill is the City of Caserta, replenished with worthy and honou∣rable people, the original whereof is uncertain, the Citizens of it affirm by anci∣ent tradition, that it was builded by the Sessulani and Galatini, others believe from the reliques of the second Capoa in the Hill Trifisco, and last of all others say that it should be builded by the Longobards, and was made a Cathedral Church by Alexander the fourth, Bishop of Rome. The Lords of Aquino ruled this City a long time; afterward it came under the Counts of Tilesia, of the Noble Fami∣ly Siginulfa, and lastly Giulio Antonio Acquaniva, a noble Lord, possest it with the Title of a Prince. The noble Family of Santori hath much honoured this City, of which that excellent Doctor of Law, Lonardo, hath been much renowned who left to the world a worthy and honourable issue, from whom descended the famous and reverend Giulio Antonio Santoro, Cardinal of the Church of Rome, and Francesco Antonio, Archbishop of Severin•• his brother, men no less famous for Learning, then for sincerity of life. Going a little farther is Mataloni, of some called Magdaloni, and of others Metalionis, which hath the dignity of a Duke∣dome, subject to the noble Family of Carrafi. Near which upon a Hill is the fair City of Venafro, named by Strabo, Venafrum, the Plain whereof Pliny calleth fertile and full of Olives: whereupon Martial praising the Oyle, saith,

Hoc tibi Campani sudavit bacca Venafri Vnguentum quoties sumis, & istud oles.

This City in the time of our Ancestors had the Title of a County under the Pan∣doni Gentlemen of Naples, after the which it came under the Dominion of the worthy Lords of Lanoia, Princes of Sulmona, but now it is in the Kings hands. Going a little farther is the noble & ancient City of Sora, so called both now, and in old time, which in the time of the Romans was the principal City of all Sannio▪ Pliny placeth it in the first Region, and Ptolomy in Latium, and Strabo describeth it in hap∣py Campania. We following the division of the Kings Court, place it in this Province of the Land of Lavoro, or happy Campania.

Livy saith that the said City was made at one and the same time a Colony of the Romans, with Alba, which was of the Territory Vestino; but possest by the Samnites. This which Livy saith, that Sora should be of the Ter∣ritory Vestino, is true, for this reason, that the City Vestina being near Garigliano, in the Plain of Sessa, that which was from the mouth of the River even to Sora, by the River Garigliano, all under one only name of Vestini became so called, and Ga∣rigliano and Sessa were comprehended under the self-same of Vestini. Livy saith that the Sorani becoming rebels and joyning with the Samniti, went against them with all their force, and saith that in this rebellion the Sorani cut in pieces the Ro∣man Colonies that were there; which stirred so great desire of revenge, that at length the City was taken by Treason, one of Sora bringing in ten Romans secret∣ly into the Castle, whereupon the Citizens broke up the Gates in the night and fled away, and the Roman Army freely entred in, and there were taken 325 of the Sorani, Authors of the Rebellion, and the death of the Roman Colonies, and were carried bound to Rome, and cruelly beaten in the Market-place, and after∣ward put to death to the great contentment of the people, which desired as their proper interest, that in their Colonies their Citizens might be secure. But within awhile following the Romans sent another Colony to Sora under the Consulship of L. Genutio, and of Servio Cornelio, the which for a long time remained there peaceable: But in the time afterward of Gregory the ninth, was destroyed by the Emperor Frederick the second; and for all this, was by the same Citizens repair∣ed, and in process of time increased in much honour and riches, and is now repu∣ted one of the best Cities in all that Province, and is adorned with the Title of a Dukedome. The said City on the one side is compassed with a stately and strong Wall, and the other is defended with the River Fibreno, which hath its begin∣ning under the Mountains of Capistrello, which is a Country in the Apennin, eight miles above Sora, which River entreth into Garigliano (called in old time Liris) near the Monastery of St. Dominico of Cisterniensi. This River aboundeth with

water, and seemeth to be that which according to Pliny cometh from the Lake Fu∣cino, which in the beginning is divided into two branches, whereof that on the left hand, by means of the high and steep Mountains is very swift, but that on the right hand running by a Rock, and falling not from that hight as the other, pas∣seth with a pleasant current very calm and beautifull. These two branches being joyned again together under Sora, make an Island very delightfull, and of much traffick, which the Ancients have called Interamina. Following the course of these Rivers, are these Countries following Torre, Campolato, Isoletta, and Col∣ledrago. Now above the Isle before named, which with those two Arms makes Garigliano, there are very high Hils, and almost wholly disinhabited; and on the right hand there is a Country above those rough and cragge Hils, very pleasant, called Comino, which is invironed with very high Hils, and hath seven Countries wel inhabited that is, Vicalvo, Alvito, Santo Donato, Settefrati, Piacinisco, Gallinaro, and Casalviero. This Country was in old time called Comino, of a City which was there so called, whereof Livy speaketh in many places, and chiefly in the tenth Book, where he saith, that it was taken by Spurio Carvillo Consul, being entred within it, and his Souldiers retired, which had the Guard of the Market-place, there was given to Papirio the Consul eleven thousand and thirty men, the first being killed by four thousand three hundred and eighty. In this same Coun∣try on the right hand under the Hils is Atina, an ancient City, which was one of those five which made Arms for the aid of Turnus, against Aeneas, according to Virgil in the seventh of Eneidos,

Quinque adeo magnae positis incudibus urbos Tola novant, Atina potens, &c.

At the side of the said City runneth the River Melfa, which riseth in the Apennin Hils, and entreth into Garigliano, near Pontecorvo, a City whereof Virgil and Li∣vy make mention. Coming down into the bottom of this Country on the side of the said River, under the Castle of Casalviero on the left hand, is a little Country which they call Schiavi; and yet lower upon a very rough and craggie Hill is Arpino, a famous City, whose stately Walls yet standing declare the greatness thereof; and although it hath been the natural Country as well of Caio. Marius as of Marcus Tullius, the one the mirror of Chivalry, the other of Eloquence, yet that preferring Learning before Martial Affairs, used for the Arms M. T. C. Under Arpino on the left hand near the River Melfa is Fontana, a little Country; and hard by is Arce, a worthy City, the Territory whereof aboundeth with great store of excellent Fruits, and hath a goodly Fortress, and is beautified with the Title of a Dukedom. Not far off followeth the City Aquino, called in old time Aquinum, which is almost ruinated, whose Reliques manifestly declare what great estimation it had in former times, where apparently are seen the ruines of stately Buildings, with goodly Statues of Marble. Both now and ever Aquino hath received much honour by Giovenale a Satyrical Poet, and Victorino an excel∣lent Geometrician, who flourished in the time of Leo the first (according to the opinion of some) he found the computation of Easter, according to the course of the Moon, at the perswasion of Pope Hillary. Moreover Pescenio Negro Empe∣ror of Rome, hath honoured this Country, as Herodian declareth in his second Book of his Cesars. And although the said City be almost ruinated, neverthe∣less it hath the dignity of a County. Here Robert Guiscardo the Norman was created with great solemnity Duke of Apuglia and Calauria, by Gregory the se∣venth, Bishop of Rome, in the year 1073. as Biondo writeth in his Histories, and Platina in the life of the said Gregory. But above all, that Angelical Doctor St. Thomas, hath most honoured Aquino, the which though born in Naples, is sir∣named of Aquino, because his Ancestors possest that Country, with other Cities and Lands. Iohn Menardo saith, that the said Angelical Doctor was of the House of Frangipane; others say that he was of the Noble Family of Sammacula, and that afterward from that Seignory (as we have said) which they had of Aquino, they were sirnamed of Aquino, the which Family was much advanced by Adinolfo,

County of Aquino, for as much as by the common consent of the Gaetani, he was created Duke of their City; among the ancient Poets, Rinaldo of Aquino hath been very excellent, of whom Monsignor Pietro Bembo maketh mention in his Epistles.

Now coming again into our former order, leaving the ancient City of Aqui∣no, there is on the left hand Roccasecca, and on the right hand upon a high Hill is the famous and worthy Monastery of Monte Casino, builded upon the ruines of the noble City of Casino, an ancient Colony of the Romans, and a worthy City of the Lat••nes, which (as Livy writeth) had a Colony brought together with Min∣turn, the which in the time of the Romans was very famous, for that noble and stately Temple of Apollo, which had a hundred and fifty high and mighty Pillars. The said Monastery was builded by St. Benedict Norsino, for his Monks, in the year of Christ 5••0 where Totila King of the Goths going to visit him, understan∣ding he had a spirit of Prophesie, and purposing to make tryal, if that which had been reported were true, put on Lackies apparel, causing another to go before him, cloathed in Kingly Ornaments, which feigned himself to be Totila; but the Saint knowing of God the deceit sent unto him with a cheerfull countenance to stay with the rest of his company, and pointing to the King which was basely apparel∣ed, requesting him to come into the Monastery. But neither this, nor other the like signes of sanctity, which St. Benedict declared to the Lombards, were suffici∣ent to restrain the unbridled fury of these Barbarians, that they might not destroy this Monastery, the which was foretold to the Monks by their Father St. Benedict. It was afterward repaired again upon the first foundations, and also enlarged 112 years after by Petronio Petronasso Bresciano, through the perswasion of Pope Gre∣gory the second, as Paulo Diacono writeth, and Elia Capriolo, in his third Book of the Brescian Histories. The Revenue of these Monks yearly, was more then fif∣ty thousand Crowns. There lieth with great devotion in the said Monastery, the bodies of many Saints and blessed people, especially that of S. Benedict Norsino, the Founder and Head thereof, and of St. Scolastica his sister, whose holy bodies were there found in the year 1443. whereby it seemeth that that cannot be true, which Paulo Diacono writeth of them, saying, that in the year 694, in the time of Gisul∣fo, Prince of Benevento▪ the said holy bodies were carried by certain Frenchmen into France, where to the honour both of the one and the other, were builded two Royal Monasteries. The which opinion is so much the less true, as that Pope Zachary affirmeth to have seen the bodies of these two Saints with his own eyes in the Mount Casino many years after; wherefore we will give more credit to the report of a chief Bishop, and to the bodies which were found and seen in the year 1443. then to the opinion of Paulo Diacono. Pliny declareth in the fourth Chapter of his seventh Book, that in the said City of Casino in the time of the Consulship of Licinio Crasso, and of Caio Cassio longo, a girl in a certain house b••••••me a boy, which by commandment and advice of their Southsayers was car∣ried 〈◊〉〈◊〉 left in an Island abandoned. At the foot of the Mount Casino is Saint Germano, a new City, so called by the name of a holy Abbot which built it. Go∣ing farther is Theano, called by Pliny and Strabo, Theanum Sidicinum, a City whe∣ther Augustus sent a Colony; and not far off is Calvi, an ancient City which was builded by Calai, the son of Borea, which came into these places after the return of the Aragonanti, as Silio declareth in his eight book, although Livy and Festo affirm that the first Inhabiters were the Ausoni. Afterward we come to Piedemon∣te of Alife, a good and a plentifull Country, and full of worthy people, where through the commodity which they have of the water, is made good Cloth of Wooll; out of this Country hath risen many excellent men, indued with much Learning, among the which these are of the greatest note, Philippo Francisco of Piedemonte, which commented the Poetry of Horace, Lodovico Paterno, an excel∣lent vulgar Poet; but in these our daies the said Country is much renowned, by means of certain Gentlemen which being contented with their retired estate, live vertuously, employing the time in the exercise of Divine Learning, and some of them in giving councel to others in the profession of the Laws. Of the same Country was Nuntio Tatiaglia, which composed the practice of the Civil and

Criminal Lieutenantship. Following the same way is Lauro, situate in a pleasant and delightfull place. This City was builded by Ruberto Orsino, Count of Nola, as Canta∣litio the Poet writeth in his fourth Book, where he saith that the said Count built it, because that great Captain Consalvo Ferrando of Cordova received in the said place the Crown of Laurel, after he had the victory of the French. This Coun∣try hath the title of a Marquis, the Lord whereof is Don Scipio Pignatello, a most worthy man, and of very honourable and vertuous qualities. A little farther is Palma, which belongeth to the said Marquiss, the which Castle was also builded by the said Count of Nola, and to this intent I will not omit to speak of the Plain of Palma, so much commended for the hunting there, where that great Alfonsus the first of Arragon, King of Naples, built to this purpose a sumptuous Palace, which afterward was destroyed by Charls the eight, King of France, al∣though the reliques are yet to be seen. Hard by is the ancient and noble City of Nola, so called by Strabo in his fifth book. This City was builded (as Trogo af∣firmeth) by the Giapigii; but according to Solmo by the Tirii. It was very great in old time, this City, as Ambrogio Leoni declareth in his first book of Nola, that the Wals thereof (as he saith) were in compass 2017 paces, having twelve parts, and was built round. Nola may boast, that the Emperor Octavius Augustus the Monarch of the world died therein, in honour of whom, Tiberius his successor in the Empire, builded in the said City a stately Temple, the reliques whereof are yet to be seen: There are also to be seen in this place, many reliques of ancient and stately buildings; now it is not so great; though it be very populous. The amo∣rous Flora was of this City, who dying, left her only heir of all her Jewels and Riches the people of Rome, and so much money was there found in her house, with the Iewels which they sold, as were sufficient to build the Walls of Rome, and also to redeem the Commonwealth: Wherefore the Romans, because she had her beginning at Rome, and also had left all her goods to the Commonwealth, built a most sumptuous and stately Temple in memory of her, from whose name they called it Floriano, wherein every year, on that day which she died, they cele∣brated the Feast of the Goddess Flora. Suetonio Tranquillo saith, that the first Feast which the Emperor Galba celebrated in Rome, was the Feast of amorous Flora, in the which all the Romans, both men and women might lawfully commit any lascivious dishonesty, which then was accounted the most holy, that which that day was most dishonest. St. Felix Bishop hath given great honour to this City, whose body lieth in it, and as they say, there riseth continually Manna out of his holy bones, whose life was written by St. Paulino Bishop of this City. St. Paulino was the inventor of the use of Bels, an Instrument utterly unknown to the Ancients, which is now so necessary in the Church of God: He gave it the name of Campane, because he invented it in Campania, where is the aforesaid City of Nola, of the which he was Bishop; and that the Citizens ever since glorying there∣in (as rightly they may) have alwaies used to give a Bell for the Arms of the Ci∣ty.

And to say something of the famous Counts of Nola; Monsignieur Guido da Monforte was the first thereof, a most noble and valiant Gentleman of France, which came with Charls the first of Angio to the Conquest of the Kingdom, with whom he was in great estimation, and having one only daughter, called Anastasia, married to Romano Orsino, chief Justice of the Kingdom, who by the death of his Father in Law, succeeded in the County, which was the first of the Family of Or∣sina, which had Seigniory in the Kingdom. The posterity of this man have pro∣ved all worthy men and very valiant; but the matchless Paragon of all was Ra∣mondo, which florished in the time of Charls the second, for being chased away and forsaken by his Father, went into Soria, after he had in a journey into the Holy Land, done many valiant exploits against the Moors, and overcome in a pri∣vate combate, a most fierce and mighty Saracin, who carried a Rose upon the top of his wreathed Turbant, returned home into the Kingdom with great honour, and for a token of that Victory, joyned it with much glory to his Arms, whereup∣on through his great magnanimity and valour, was made Prince of Taranto. That Principality hath been continued even to this present, one of the most important

Members of the Kingdom, for it contained very much land, and Cities of great∣est importance, which for brevity I omit to name; so that Ramondo being a very mighty and great Lord, the House of Orsina was very famous through all Italy. R••mondo married the Lady Mary of Eugenio▪ of an honourable proginy in France, who after the death of her husband; having the tuition of her children, became Queen of Naples, at such time as King Ladislao besieged her in Taranto, who be∣ing not able to subdue her, resolved to take her for his wife, and so by that means to possess the Inheritance of the children of Ramondo, of whom the first was Iohn Antonio, who redeemed the Principality of Taranto with money from Iames, hus∣band of Queen Ione. This Iohn Antonio increased much his Patrimony with Lands of great importance, and was highly favoured by Alfonsus of Arragon, King of Naples, who made him great Constable, which is the chiefest of the seven Offices in the Kingdom, with a hundred thousand Duckets yearly for a Pension.

And to return to the Counts of Nola, they were great L••rds, for they pos∣sest Sarno, Tripalda, Palma, Avella, Lauro, Forino, Ascoli, and other Lands. But afterward Felice Orsino, Prince of Salerno succeeded in the County, who having little experience in worldly affairs, through the d••••••ension and division of the Kingdom, lost his State in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 time after the death of his Father. And King Ferrant the first gave Salerno to Robert 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and Nola, Tripalda, Ascoli, Lauro, and Forino, to Orso Orsino, 〈…〉〈…〉 great Chancellor of the Kingdom, and partner with him in the Wars against Iohn Antonio Orsino; whereupon the line of Romano Orsino, which had ruled Nola almost two hundred years, was ex∣tinguished, and the Principality of Salerno, rose of the House of Orsino 24 years after he had it. But this line afterward of the Count Orso, continued but a small time, for the Lady Santola, a Citizen of Nola, by whom he had two sons, the one Duke of Ascoli, and the other a Knight, lost all their Inheritance through the wicked means of their mother, who lewdly justified of her own accord, that they were not begotten by the Count Orso, were deprived of all their right by King Ferdinando, who gave the County of Nola, with Cimitino, Avella, Monfor∣te, Lauro, Palma, and Ottoiano, to the Count Nicola Orsino of Pitigliano, whose successors possest it untill the year 1528. the which Don Arrigo, in serving the French, lost his life and his state also; and so ended the line of the Counts of Nola, which were so famous in this Kingdom.

Now returning to our former order, I say, that from the City of Nola are also sprung many other famous men, as well adorned with Learning, as with Military Discipli••e, which would be too teadious to repeat, and therefore I re••er the reader to Ambrogio Lione, who very exactly nameth and describeth them all. But for us it shall be only sufficient to name the Noble Families, which the said Leone wri∣teth of, which are in the said City, and are these following, Albertino, Alfano, Barone, Capos••rosa, Candido, Cesarini, Coriale, Carmignano, Campobascio, de Fer∣rariis, de Elia, Freccia, Fellecchia, Fontana, Rosa, Del Iodice, Ioseph, Infante, de Gen∣naro, Maffei, Marifeulo, Morra, Mastril••o, Mazzeo, Notariis, De Palma, Perarii, Perrigioanni, Rehi, Risi, Santori, Sassolani, &c. and at this present the Bishop of this City, Fabritio Gallo Neopolitan, a Prelate (besides his learning) a man of sincere and pure life, who with much diligence composed a Sinodal Book of his Diocess. There are many other places, the which I think not fit to recite all, but the great∣est and most important I have not omitted any, but the small and little, as those which are thought to be of little or no account, I have neglected, assuring you, that to the integrity and soundness of the Work, it shall not fail in any momen∣tary matter.

The Arms of this Noble Country is in a Field Asur•••• Cornucope in salter tho∣row the middle of a Crown the first of ••eres, the other Bacchus or; the which Arms signifie the great fertility and abundance of the Country, which as it were Queen of every other Province, exceeds them in all the benefits of Nature. Where∣upon in confirmation of what I have said, I will concluded with L. Floro, who speak∣ing thereof, thus writeth,

Omnium non modo Italia, sed toto orbe terrarum pulcherrima Campaniae plaga est: Nihil mollius coelo; nihil uberrius solo, nihil hospitalius mari. Denique bis floribus vernat, ideo Liberi, Cererisque certamen dicitur. Hic illi nobiles portus Caieta, Mi∣senus, & tepentes fontibus Baiae, Lucrinus, & Avernus, qu••dam maris otia. Hic amicti vitibus montes ••aurus, Falernus, Massicus, Pulcherim••s omnium Vessuvius, Aetaeni ignis imitator. Vrbes ad mare, Formiae, Cumae, Neapolis, Herculanium, Pompei, & ipsa caput urbium Capua, quodam inter tres maximas, Romam, Cartha∣ginemque numerata, &c.

Notes

• The length and breadth of the Land of Lavoro.
• Campania Fe∣lix, why it was so called.
• The nature of the Land of Lavoro.
• Trees flourish twice a year in this Province.
• The great plenty both of fowls and wild beasts in the Land of Lavoro.
• The fishes which the Sea of this Pro∣vince bring∣eth forth.
• Mines and Baths.
• Of the Wine. Oyle, and li∣ving creatures which are in this Province.
• See Plutarch.
• The praise of this Province.
• The excellent Conserve of Naples.

  The nature & condition of the people of this Pro∣vince.
• Fondi.
• Pliny lib. 14. cap: 6.
• The Lake Fon∣dano.
• Mamurry.
• Gaeta.
• Galasius se∣cond, Bishop of Rome
• Mola.
• Formia.
• The Village of Scipio and Le∣lius.
• See Martial, lib. x. epig••a. The Castle Honoratus.
• Horace, lib. pr.
• The River Ga∣rigliano.

  The over∣throw given to the Sara∣cins by Pope Iohn the 10. Consalvus Fer∣randus, grand Captain of Cordova. Tratetto. Minturne.
• The Land of Lavoro. Garigliano.
• Trifano.
• Sinope, called Sinuessa. Turpillus the Comical Poet.
• The Hill Mas∣sico.
• The Fort of Mondragone.
• The Villages of Sessa.
• The City Sessa.
• Why it was called Sessa.
• Augustine Nifo.
• Carinola. The Fields Falerni, what they were, and how far they stretched. The Fields Stellato. Calvi. Cajazza. Tiano. Caianello. Vulturno.
• Patria.
• Of the Foun∣tain Acidula, and the pro∣perty thereof.
• The City Cu∣ma.
• The Town of Servilio Vacia.
• Miseno▪ Trum∣peter of Aeneas
• Bana, the Lake Averno, and Pizzolo, why they were so named.
• Soffatara.
• The Hil Astur∣no.
• Listroni.
• The Village of Cicero, where the Emperor Adrian was buried.
• Hot-Houses.
• The soul of Pascasio Cardi∣nal.

  See also Iohn ••••ki•• in his 2 book of Pur∣gatory.
• Pausilipo, a most delight∣full place which accor∣ding to Dion, was possessed by Vedio Pol∣lione, a Roman, a man famous for no other cause then his wealth and cruelty, be∣cause in that place he had certain Fish∣ponds, where∣in he used of∣ten times to cast in men, as food for his fishes; and dying, le••t Au∣gustus his heir of Pausilipo. Virgil his Se∣pulchre. Chiaia Giacomo Sana∣zaro.
• The Castle of Vovo.
• Naples alwaies faithful to the people of Rome.

  The praise of the City of Naples.
• The Gulf Cratera.
• The Arms of the City of Naples.
• The Tower of Greece, and of Nuntiata.
• The Hill Som∣ma casteth out fire.

  The death of Pliny.
• The Whol∣some House, a most delight∣some place builded by King Charls the second.
• The City Mas∣sa.

  The Temple of Minerva. The Isle of Sirenuse, see Virgil in the end of his 5 Book of Ene••∣dos; now these Islands are called under one name Gal∣lo▪ where is the Isle of Capri.
• Procita, why it was so called.
• Dyonisius of A∣licarnaseo, in the first of the Histories of Rome.
• Iohn of Proci∣cla, Author of the Sicilian Evening.
• Ieronimo Zuri∣ta in the Histo∣ry of Arragon.
• The Family of Procita in Ca∣talogna.
• The Isle Ischia. Of the Giant Tipheo the Po∣ets speak di∣versly: for Vir∣gil in the 9 of Aeneidos saith, that here he was strucken with lightning by Iupiter, in the which o∣pinion agreeth Lucan, but O∣vid saith it w••s in Sicilia. Alfonsus King of Arragon and Naple, was of the House of Medina, so saith Laonico. Cal∣condile Atheni∣an in the Hi∣story of the Turks, in his fift Book.
• Gironda, an an∣cient City of the Isle.
• Bartholmew Perdice Geno∣way.
• The Book of the Antiqui∣ties of Pozzu∣olo, written by the Author of this Work. The body of St. Restituta Virgin.
• The Isle Nisi∣ta, why it was so called.
• Gaiola, why ••t was so called.
• The City Ca∣poa.
• Capoa destroy∣ed.
• The Sepulchre of Capi, the builder of Capoa.
• Capoa destroy∣ed by Genseri∣co King of the Vandals.

  Capoa newly builed.

  The Lombards destroy Capoa. Capoa re-edifi∣ed.

  Conradus King of Naples cast the Walls of Capoa to the gr••und.

  Capoa sacked by the French.
• The Land of Lavoro, why it was so called.
• F. L. Sosipatro Charisso.
• Vittore Bishop.
• Peter of Vineis
• Iohn Antonio Campano.
• The City Atel∣la.
• The City A∣versa, by whom it was built.
• Aversa de∣stroyed by Charls of An∣gio, King of Naples.
• Don Pietro Or∣sino.

  The famous men of Aver∣sa.
• Marigliano.
• The City A∣cerra, why it was built.
• Acerrr, why it was so called.
• The Temple of Iupiter Fere∣trio.
• Propertio in 4.
• The river Gla∣nio and the originall thereof.
• Sessula
• The river Is∣clero.
• Aierola.
• The City Caserta, by whom it was built
• Lonardo Santo∣ro.
• Mataloni.
• Venafro.
• The City Sora.
• The Sorani cut in pieces the Roman Colonies.
• The Romans take Sora.
• The Romans send another Colony to Sora.

  Sora destroy∣ed by the Em∣peror Frede∣rick the se∣cond.

  The River Fibreno, and the beginning thereof.
• The River Liris, now cal∣led Garigliano.
• An Island, a most beautiful Country, cal∣led by the An∣cients Interam∣nia.
• Comino, a plea∣sant Country was ••o called by an ancient City of the same name.
• The City Ati∣na.
• The River Melfa.
• The City Ar∣pino.
• The Arms of Arpino.
• The City Arce
• The City A∣quino.
• Giovenal, a Sa∣tyrical Poet.
• Victorino, a Geometrician.
• Pescenio Negro, Emperor.
• St. Thomas of Aquin.

  Gio Menardo, in the 6 book of epistles, in the 5 epistle.

  Adinolfo, Count of Aquino, and Duke of Gae∣ta.
• Monte Casino.
• Totila, King of Goths▪
• Paulo Diacono in his 6 book of histories▪
• The City Theano.
• The City Cal∣vi.
• The City Lauro, by whom it was built.
• Palma The Plain of Palma.
• The City Nola.
• The death of the Emperor Octavius Au∣gustus.
• Flora and her Riches.
• The Temple of Flora.
• St. Felix Bi∣shop.
• St. Paulino the Inventer of Bels.
• The Arms of Nola.
• The first Counts of No∣la.
• Romano Orsino was the first of that Family that had Lord∣ship in the Kingdom.
• Wherefore the Rose was adjoyned to Arms of the House of Or∣sina.
• Iohn Antonio Orsino, Prince of Tarento.
• Counts of Nola.
• The names of the Noble Fa∣milies of Nola.
• The Arms of this Province of Lavoro.